Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has recommended setting up a cross-border transportation network to boost the regional economy, trade and cooperation among member countries, at a regional summit in the Philippines.

According to deputy government spokesman Werachon Sukondhapatipak, the prime minister addressed the audience at the 10th Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangle Summit held in Manila where the premier joined leaders from other member countries.

The meeting provided a sub-regional framework for accelerating economic cooperation and integration of the member states and provinces in the three countries. It is part of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean).

Lt Gen Werachon said Gen Prayut called for development across border transport infrastructure to cover Thailand’s Ranong and Phuket provinces, Malaysia’s Penang and Indonesia’s Aceh.

The prime minister also suggested the development of transport infrastructure connecting the mainland and Sumatra Island in Indonesia and providing cargo services and yachting services to facilitate business operators and tourists, he added.

Gen Prayut also urged speeding up construction of a crossing on Golok River that lies on the border between Malaysia and Thailand to promote economic and trade activities between the two countries.

The prime minister also urged for speeding up the Emerald Triangle Development project which covers Pattani, Yala and Narathiwat.

On regional air connectivity, Lt Gen Werachon said Gen Prayut recommended country members look for the possibility of developing a new airport or expanding their international airports to serve passenger demands as the number of commuters is expected to rise due in a fully established Asean Economic Community.

He also urged country members to study the potential of regional air connectivity in driving tourism and economic growth, he added.

Gen Prayut also recommended setting up a regional logistics network and developing a cargo distribution centre.

Lt Gen Werachon said the prime minister started his speech taking about the success of collaborative projects between the member countries — Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand.

He added Gen Prayut said much work still needs to be carried out to ensure a bright future. The premier called for cooperation among member countries, saying he was confident that collaborative efforts would push them to achieve set goals.

Lt Gen Werachon said Gen Prayut stressed the importance of setting up facilities to make the most of transport infrastructure.

The premier urged members to consider signing a cross-border land transport agreement to serve the demands of business operators and the public, he added.

At the meeting, Gen Prayut also called on the member countries to gain an advantage through IT and digital development, he said.